Kindergarten

This program is ideal for children who are not quite old enough for K or who might need another year before entering K, including those that have summer or early fall birthdays. The program adheres to the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks while incorporating a Reggio inspired approach to learning. We have had graduates that go on to first grade after a kindergarten year at the Neighborhood and others that do another year of K in the public schools.

The Kindergarten year at the Neighborhood Cooperative builds upon the preschool program, incorporating a Reggio Inspired approach while adhering to the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. The Reggio inspired approach is an emergent and project-based curriculum, and is built upon children’s interests and observations. Teachers work to set up provocations and exploration stations within the room that encourage children to make discoveries and to reach identified learning goals. In a Reggio Inspired classroom, one simple question may lead to a long term study.

The Kindergarten program embraces a multisensory, structured Literacy approach and our Literacy Specialist has chosen programs that support the science of reading. Phonics and phonemic awareness are taught using both the Wilsons Fundations reading program and the Heggerty Phonemic Awareness curriculum. Vocabulary, comprehension, and language skills are incorporated into our year-long "Me on the Map" inquiry. Read-alouds and journal writing will play a large part in developing these critical areas.

Through an emergent “Me on the Map” year-long inquiry, children use their geographic location in different ways to make connections and to help students understand their place in the world. Using maps and an interrelated curriculum connecting reading, writing, science, math, social studies, art, and music, we will begin learning about each individual child and their families, then expand to our school community, Winchester and surrounding communities, Massachusetts, and eventually where we are in the world.

Enrichment

The Kindergarten classes have weekly music and drama classes. They also visit the Winchester Public Library on a monthly basis.

Parent testimonials

“My daughter had the BEST experience in the K program at NCNS! Would highly recommend. It was a really wonderful combination of play-based learning coupled with an incredible reading/phonics program” - Kelli Braga

“If you are looking for a private K option you can’t go wrong with the Nieghborhood program. My son attended the Kindergarten program at NCNS and our time there was nothing short of extraordinary. The dedicated teachers and engaging curriculum played a pivotal role in fostering my son’s growth and development. From day one it was evident that this program was designed with a genuine love for education. My son blossomed, not only academically, but also socially and emotionally. The nurturing environment provided a perfect foundation for building confidence and independence. The creative approach to learning, combined with hands-on activities, made every day an exciting adventure. We are immensely grateful to the entire NCNS team for their unwavering support and dedication.” - Julie Fish

“We had a fantastic experience at the Neighborhood and jumped at the chance to have our middle child experience the Kindergarten program.” - Lindsay LaBarr

“The BEST K program in Winchester! The level of attention given to each individual child and their own unique needs is unparalleled. Hands on, nurturing, play focused program with an exceptional reading/phonics program lead by a truly special staff. We could not have been happier! Thank you NCNS!” - Joslyn Collier